Unlock the secret to crispy, tangy orange chicken: cheesecake factory’s recipe revealed
What To Know
- Add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a fiery kick.
- Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this easy-to-follow guide will lead you to culinary success.
- Store leftover Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Cheesecake Factory‘s iconic Orange Chicken, now recreated in your own kitchen. This comprehensive recipe guide will take you through every step, ensuring that you savor the same mouthwatering dish that has captivated diners for years.
Ingredients for Orange Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken:
1. In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and milk.
3. Dip chicken pieces into the egg mixture, then coat in the cornstarch mixture.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Fry chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Making the Orange Sauce:
1. In a saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until sauce has thickened slightly.
Combining the Chicken and Sauce:
1. Return chicken pieces to the skillet.
2. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken and stir to coat.
3. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until chicken is heated through.
Garnishes and Serving Suggestions
Garnish your Orange Chicken with fresh cilantro, scallions, and sesame seeds for an authentic touch. Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 30g
Tips for Success
- For a crispier chicken, double-coat the pieces in the cornstarch mixture.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired spice level.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little bit of water or orange juice.
- Serve the Orange Chicken immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Variations
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a fiery kick.
- Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Replace the honey in the sauce with 1/4 cup of honey garlic sauce.
- Orange Chicken Stir-Fry: Add vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers to the skillet along with the chicken.
Orange Chicken Recipe Cheesecake Factory: A Taste of Culinary Heaven
With this recipe, you can now enjoy the beloved Orange Chicken from the Cheesecake Factory in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this easy-to-follow guide will lead you to culinary success.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs can be used, but they will take slightly longer to cook.
Q: What can I serve with Orange Chicken?
A: Steamed rice, noodles, or a side salad are all excellent accompaniments.
Q: How do I store leftover Orange Chicken?
A: Store leftover Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Orange Chicken?
A: Yes, Orange Chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: How do I make the Orange Chicken less spicy?
A: Reduce the amount of red pepper flakes in the sauce or omit it completely.